Delmar and DeWalt announced the launch of DeWalt Mobile Pro, a new mobile application for construction professionals. DeWalt Mobile Pro is an innovative and powerful mobile solution developed specifically for contractors and tradesmen in the construction industry, with free features and numerous ways to customize the app based on each user's trade focus. The app is available for the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad and has been designed with custom interfaces to suit the various screen sizes of each device.

Ashland City, Tenn.-based maker of water heaters and boilers launched the A.O. Smith Warranty Check app for contractors and plumbers for use in the field.

"The iPhone and Android have created a huge demand for on-the-go information from homeowners and professionals," said Matt Southards, senior manager of digital marketing and strategy for A.O. Smith. "As an industry leader, we want to provide our plumbing professionals with easy access to critical information from remote locations."

According to Lowe's Rick Damron, executive VP store operations, the Mooresville, N.C.-based retail giant has rolled out iPhones to more than 60% of its stores, where they're used as sales tools and scanners.

The mobile devices customized with retail applications and based on Apple's iPhone technology are expected to be rolled out to all stores by the end of the year.

Sears Holdings has begun the staged rollout of Apple iPads and Apple iPod Touch devices, starting with nearly 450 stores nationwide. The move is designed to enhance the relationship between customers and associates, while improving the overall in-store shopping experience, Sears said.

Lowe’s announcement on Aug. 31 of its very own Lowe’s App for iPhones and iPads was apparently just one bite of the apple. The home improvement retailer has purchased 42,000 iPhones and intends to use them as mobile cash registers in its stores, according to an article in Business Insider.